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Q&A
I have a hernia. Will this disqualify me from passing a DOT physical?
What if I have a limb impairment? Am I disqualified?
I have a hernia. Will this disqualify me from passing a DOT physical?
If the hernia does not interfere with your operation of a commercial motor vehicle, then there is no problem.
If you have pain and are limited in some way, then you should take care of the problem before it does become a serious problem.
I had hernia surgery three years ago. There is some scar tissue which causes a little discomfort from time to time but in no way renders me unable to perform any tasks. Will this cause me to fail a DOT physical?
During the examination you will be questioned regarding the hernia surgery. Just let the medical examiner know how this effects you and whether it interferes with your daily activities. Some companies have restrictions, but this is a company policy not a DOT regulation.
I have a hernia that does not give me any trouble. The doctor I saw for my DOT exam says I have to get it repaired before my next exam. What if my regular doctor says that we can do watchful waiting instead of surgery? What are my rights under the law about this?
The DOT examiner is looking at a progressive condition, but if you will take a note from your primary doctor who has evaluated your condition and understands what you really do for a living, then the DOT examiner should consider your primary doctor’s opinion. However, the final decision to certify you, or not, remains with the medical examiner.
What if I have a limb impairment? Am I disqualified?
It is possible to apply for an exemption. FMCSA has a certificate program for drivers with limb impairments. FMCSA also has a special certification program for drivers with missing limbs. (see FMCSA Skill Performance Evaluation)
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Would I be able to pass wearing AFO braces?
@ Shawn
It will depend on the class cdl you are testing for.
For class A, it will be determined by the medical examiner. Lesser class cdl is under the states guidelines and variances, so check with your state DLD.
I had colon surgery in October for what was stage one cancer. My surgeon cleared me for returning back to work with no restrictions after January 1st. My dot card expires in December. Is there anything I should be aware of before I try to get my dot card renewed. I am on fmla which expires in mid January
@ Chuck
Once fully released to return to work, go for a new medical card and get a copy to the state ASAP. You should be fine, if all else is normal.
I broke my right leg on the job and am on workers comp at the moment, it has been 6 weeks now and my health card is expiring, I passed my dot physical but won’t certify me because of the leg, it is healing, will I lose my cdl because of this.
@ James S
Most cases, no. The states have procedures that would allow for situations like yours. Check with your local drivers license department (DLD) for their process.
I’m a class A CDL driver from KS off on medical after RCR surgery that failed I now face reversed Shoulder replacement. Is this going to Disqualify me? Thank you
@ Jolena
If the final shoulder repair does not negatively effect your ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle, then you will be fine.
Can you pass an exam if you are right- handed, but have a tear in your left rotator cuff?
@ AC
If the tear does not influence your ability to operate a CMV safely, then you may get by.
Can you pass a DOT physical if you only have one arm
@ Donny
For a class A, over the road (OTR) driver, it is possible. It will require a skills performance certification though. A lesser class cdl falls under your states guidelines and variances.
If a commercial driver has an appendectomy, what is the recovery time and should that driver be medically cleared by DOT physician before returning to work?
@ Cheryl P
Just a note from the doctor clearing the driver to return to work. Then a new medical certification examination before returning to driving.
Can I drive with a pinched nerve in my neck that can cause severe stiffness if I turn my head?
@ Sharon V
It would not be advisable to do so.
Can I pass a DOT physical using a cane because of back pain.
@ James B
Not the cane, but the back pain will be the issue.
If you fail your DOT physical, can you continue driving on your unexpired card from the previous year while seeking a second opinion?
@ Sue
Technically, no. Your results were entered into the federal data base. If no one checks it out, you may get away with it. But DOT stops you ???.
Can you pass a physical with Venous insufficiencies in both legs.
@ Kathy
It will depend on the severity and any limitations you condition present.
Last yr had both hips replaced and knee replaced naturally I have slight limp I have till november to take physical to reinstate my class a cdl doubles triples tanker will this disqualify me I dont currently drive but also dont want to give up my cld have had it since 1988 thanks for ur time
@ Eric M
You should not have any difficulty with this.
Will a bad hip disqualify me? I can walk fine just have a limp.
@ Dewey
The medical examiner will have to make the final decision on this. If you can still perform the duties of a cmv operator, you should be OK.
I’m waiting for dot physical appointment, I had both knees replaced last year in NY, this is my first attempt for class B cdl in florida. Should I be worried about passing?
@ Peter
A class B license fall under the states guidelines and variances, so make sure the examiner know you are going for a class B and not a class A. The states guidelines are different from DOT/FMCSA and are a bit more lenient.
I am out of work on FMLA because of a back injury. I’m am scheduled for surgery on my spine in July. There is no way I can pass a physical now, but I don’t want to lose my CDL. Thanks for direction.
@ Zack Z
Check with your local drivers license department and explain your circumstances. They should have a process in place for situations like yours.
Can you drive a big truck with numb foot and toes
@ Mary P S
Best to find the cause of the numbness and have it corrected, if possible. If the condition is being caused by a neuropathy, then there is an underlying condition which will be questioned by the CME.
What happens in Massachusetts if you can’t pass a DOT physical due to surgery recovery on my leg is there a leniency will they give you an extension.
@ Robert L
DOT/FMCSA has already given you an extension until the end of August.
Meaning my license won’t be downgraded until the end of August thank you
@ Robert L
Meaning DOT/FMCSA has extended your deadline until the end of August. Check with your states drivers license department for a confirmation. And still, do not put it off, just in case…
Thank you for your help I’ve been worried about what would happen and now at least I have some direction on were to start appreciate your help
@ Robert L
Glad to help. We wish we had all the answers, but…
Recently went to cdl physical for medical card, spoke with physician about arm surgery, they agreed that i dont have immobility issue for driving, but asked for medical notes from recent doc visits. My medical status is pending, should i be ok?
I feel i dont have an issue, my left arm doesnt stretch all the way out, thats it.
@ Tony
You are OK, the CME is requesting additional information to support his decision to grant you a full medical certificate.
Thanks doc, truly appreciate it. been stressing out about this for awhile now.
@ Tony
You are welcome.
If clearance is needed by an Orthopedic Surgeon for a hand deformity, does the surgeon have to be certified to medically clear CDL drivers, or can any surgeon do it as long as the right paperwork is provided? Able to drive a hostler vehicle with no issues
@ Adrian L
Regular orthopedic doctor with the proper paperwork is all that is needed.
What if you are on workmans comp and you will be pass your dead line to renew before being released
@ Greg
Most state are lenient with situations like yours. Get a medical done as soon as you are released to return to work and get it into the state.